Dr. Karanfil's primary teaching and research interests are in the fundamentals and applications of physiochemical processes in water, wastewater and hazardous waste treatment systems. In recent years, his research group has also investigated the behavior of nanomaterials, especially carbon nanotubes and graphenes, in engineered and natural systems. There are three thrusts in his research group:

(i) The formation and control of regulated and emerging disinfection by-products (DBP) and understanding their precursors (e.g., the components of natural organic matter, dissolved organic nitrogen) in drinking water systems, wastewater effluents and swimming pools. The current research focus is more on nitrogenous (Nitrosamines, Halonitromethanes) and iodinated DBPs.

(ii) Phase separation, specifically sorption and membrane processes and technologies. The adsorption behaviors of several adsorbents (activated carbons, carbon fibers, ion exchange resins, nanomaterials), with more emphasis on CNTs, graphenes, and other nanomaterials in recent years, have been examined in engineered and natural systems. Some membrane application projects have also been conducted.

(iii) Water quality research in natural systems.

Dr. Karanfil's research group is particularly interested in applying fundamentals of chemistry and engineering to address environmental challenges faced in practical applications including both engineered and natural systems. Dr. Karanfil is a recipient of the National Science Foundation Early CAREER Award, and is a certified professional engineer and board certified environmental engineer.